Access Bank Plc has refuted reports circulating on social media stating that the bank is closing, assuring clients that it is still financially sound and fully operating.
In a statement released by its management on Thursday, the bank described the viral message, which falsely impersonated its official communication channels, as “false and misleading.”
“We wish to reassure our customers, partners, stakeholders, and the public that Access Bank is safe, financially strong, and fully operational across all our subsidiaries. Our services continue to run seamlessly, and we remain committed to serving our customers with the highest standards of excellence,” the statement said.
The bank emphasized that the claims of an impending shutdown were entirely false and urged members of the public to disregard them.
Access Bank also revealed that it was working with relevant regulatory and law enforcement agencies to identify those behind the misinformation.
“We are working closely with the relevant regulatory and law enforcement authorities to identify those responsible for creating and spreading this false information to cause panic and business disruption. Appropriate legal action will be taken in accordance with applicable laws and regulations,” the statement added.
The lender also reminded the public that generating and publishing false information with the intent of causing panic or eroding trust in institutions is a crime under Section 24 of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024.
It recommended clients disregard the bogus message and instead rely on information issued through Access Bank’s official and certified communication channels.
“If you receive a false and misleading message, please do not share or forward it. Instead, disregard it and rely only on information communicated through Access Bank’s official and verified channels,” the bank said.
